Bells 50 Year Storm Invitational

Will 2017 see the 50 year storm hit Bells? In the memory of local Surf Coast charger Shaun Brooks, the Torquay community have launched the inaugural Bells 50 Year Storm Invitational big wave surfing event. "It will celebrate courage in the face of adversity and highlight the needs for communities to support each other in testing times." Said event organiser Carlo Lowdon.

The event that has a waiting period between June 1st - August 31st designed to give the best chance in capturing rare moments when winter storms from the deep Indian and southern oceans can come to life. If conditions reach 12 feet plus the contestable field of invitees comprising of Surf Coast locals and big wave chargers (including 18 surfers and 18 alternates) will suit up and paddle out.

Surfers will take to the Bells Beach lineup over a four-hour competition window to battle each other and mother nature in an effort to be the first champion of the event.

Every year the opening ceremony will kick off the waiting period, recognising the Wathaurong people as the traditional custodians of the land, and offering a chance for the wider Surf Coast community to connect over a shared love for the ocean and each other.

All proceeds for the Bells 50 Year Storm Invitational go to raising support for mental health advocate group One In Five.